Fishing is more than just a way to spend a weekend away from home—it’s a way for seniors to reconnect with nature, focus on their mental wellness, and relive fond memories of days spent by the water.
If you were born before July 1, 1952, you can get a Lifetime Sportsman’s License for free. Anyone born after June 30, 1952 can still enjoy fishing with a greatly discounted rate of $7 annually or $35 for a lifetime license.
Retirement should be a time of relaxation and fun. So, if fishing is you or your loved one’s favorite pastime, take the little bit of extra effort to get a license!
The Benefits of Fishing for Seniors
Fishing isn’t just about catching fish—it’s about the experience. And for seniors, the benefits can be extraordinary across many areas of life:
- Physical wellness: Casting a line, reeling in a big catch, and even walking along the serene banks of a lake promote gentle physical activity, helping with mobility and overall health. Fishing isn’t strenuous, making it accessible for most seniors, yet it provides plenty of opportunities to stay active.
- Mental clarity & relaxation: The rhythmic motion of casting and the gentle sound of water have been shown to reduce stress, boost mood, and keep the mind sharp. For some, fishing serves as a form of meditation, helping seniors focus and find peace.
- Connection & community: Fishing creates opportunities for personal bonds—whether it’s passing on knowledge to grandchildren, joining a local fishing club, or making friends at organized outings. Fishing promotes social interaction and fosters a strong sense of belonging.
These benefits are amplified when seniors fish in beautiful local spots, surrounded by Georgia’s breathtaking natural landscapes. For those in communities like Alpharetta, these adventures are just a short trip away.
How Much Does A Fishing License Cost?
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources offers a range of fishing and hunting licenses for residents and non-residents alike. Fortunately, they have an easy to reference price chart so you know what you’re looking for.
A Sportsman’s License comes with a optional durable card for an extra $10 and covers:
- Fishing
- Mountain Trout
- Hunting
- Big Game
- Wildlife Management Area (WMA) Access
- Alligator Harvest Permit (based on a quota lottery)
- Georgia Waterfowl & Migratory Bird
People born before June 30, 1952 can get a Lifestime Sportsman’s License for free. People born after June 30, 1952, but who are over 65, can get a Lifetime Sportsman’s License for only $70 while an annual license will cost $7 a year. If you’re solely interested in fishing, then a Lifetime Fishing is greatly discounted at $35.
Compared to many other recreational hobbies, fishing is incredibly affordable, yet it offers priceless mental, physical, and social rewards. And for those living in senior communities, organizing group trips to local fishing spots makes it even easier to enjoy this beloved activity.
How to Get A Fishing License
Fishing in Georgia is regulated to preserve our beautiful state’s lush waterways and thriving aquatic life. This allows all of us to enjoy the wonders of nature for generations to come.
Anyone aged 65 and older who has resided in Georgia for at least 3 months qualifies for a discounted senior fishing license. A valid identification card or proof of residency is required when applying.
Here’s how to apply for an annual fishing license:
- Head to https://www.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com/.
- Click on “Licenses & Permits,” then log in or create an account. You’ll need to provide some basic details to locate, update, or set up your customer profile.
- Select the license you want, add it to your cart, and proceed to checkout. You can pay using Visa, MasterCard, or Discover, and a small transaction fee will be applied.
- Print your license or download the “Go Outdoors Georgia” app from your device’s app store. After syncing your purchase, your license should be accessible through the app.
If you’re printing a physical copy, ensure you have a printer capable of printing graphics. Black and white or color doesn’t matter. The license will open in a new browser window, so make sure to disable any pop-up blockers! If you’d like a durable license card, you can order one directly from https://www.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com/.
You have a few more options when it comes to obtaining a free Senior Lifetime Sportsman’s license. You can:
- Order online through https://www.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com/ as described above.
- Visit a License Agent near you.
- Call 1-800-366-2661
This license comes with no transaction fees, but you can get an optional durable card for $10.
Reel in the Good Times with Us
If fishing is your or your loved ones idea of the perfect day, our senior living community is ready to cast a line with you! While access to nearby natural hotspots and a team dedicated to providing safe and exciting outings, life in Inspired Living at Alpharetta is full of opportunities for fun, connection, and relaxation.Book a tour of our community today and discover why our residents love to call us home. From fishing trips to group activities and everything in between, we’ve made it easy to live the life you love—all while making new memories along the way.
